Ephedrine is a stimulant that is commonly used as an appetite suppressant, concentration aid, decongestant and bronchodilator. It is a derivative of the ephedra plant and is also a component of the herb, ma huang. Until a 2004 ban by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, most diet pills on the market contained ephedra, ephedrine or ma huang as an active ingredient. Ephedrine is also considered a sports-enhancement drug and is banned in the NFL as well as the U.S. military.
Thermogenic
Ephedrine stimulates the central nervous system. Like many stimulants, it raises body temperature and can cause thermogenesis, a process in which the body creates heat. Thermogenesis is a key component affecting metabolic rate, and when stimulated, will increase fat oxidation and caloric expenditure, thus resulting in weight loss.
Appetite Suppressant
Adrenaline, or epinephrine, is released by the adrenal gland as the body reacts to stress. Stimulants such as ephedrine cause the release of fight-or-flight hormones, stimulating the central nervous system, increasing heart rate and blood pressure. When these hormones are released, it interrupts the brain's ability to signal the body that it is hungry. The effect of appetite suppressants on the nervous system triggers this action.
FDA Ban
In 2004, the FDA banned dietary supplements containing ephedra and ma huang after evidence of serious health risks and death. The following year, they announced new regulations for purchasing drugs containing ephedrine, psuedoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine. The Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005, which outlined these regulations, was signed by President George W. Bush in 2006. The act mandates specific requirements to stores selling drugs with those ingredients, such as requiring items be stored in a locked area or away from reach of consumers,and valid legal identification be presented at time of purchase.
Side Effects
Common side effects associated with the use of ephedrine are dizziness, headache, nervousness and trouble sleeping. More serious side effects include fast or irregular heartbeat, hallucinations and seizures. In rare cases, ephedrine use has been linked to deaths. If you are considering using this drug, consult a licensed physician first.
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